As part of Khelo-India sports initiative, a series of Cricket, Volleyball and Football final matches were played at Galizoo Sports Stadium Kupwara today to mark the culmination of the Sports Calendar with some splendid sports activities.Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Baseer Ahmad Khan was the chief guest, while as District Development Commissioner Kupwara, Khalid Jahangir was the guest of honor on the occasion.The final of cricket match played between Handwara Red and Kupwara Victoria teams was won by the former, whereas in Volleyball final Tangdar defeated Handwara. In the football final Kupwara lifted the final cup by defeating Handwara.Appreciation awards were distributed among the winning teams besides other consolation prizes that were given to the runner up teams.Speaking on the occasion, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir complimented the participating teams and hailed the organizers for organising such events. He said that such events enable youth to express and channelize their potential in a positive direction. He also said that sports activities have profound and significant impact on the social and mental development of youth. The Div Com stressed upon youth to participate with more zeal and enthusiasm in sports activities.
Reiterating upon the Government's commitment of developing sports infrastructure, Baseer Khan said that various sports activities are being organized across the length and breadth of the State under centrally sponsored "Khelo India" pan India sports initiative.“There is no dearth of talent in our State. It needs to be harnessed in a positive way so that youth get a chance to display their skills and move ahead”, the Div Com added.Moreover, the Divisional Commissioner held an interactive session with the players and sought their feedbacks and suggestions with regard to development of Sports activities in the district.District Development Commissioner, Khalid Jahangir expressed gratitude to the participants and assured every possible support from the district administration in promoting sports culture. He assured them that administration will take care of their all requirements in terms of sports infrastructure and other related necessities.District Youth Services and sports officer, while informing about the programme said that the department is organising several sports activities under the ambit of Khelo-India Sports initiative. He said that about 443 teams comprising of about 6334 players participated in different categories in this 2-month long tournament.